Are you looking for a way to add a sweet and tangy twist to your cooking? Look no further than canned apricots! These versatile fruits are a pantry staple that can be used in a variety of dishes, from sweet treats like cakes and cookies to savory meals like stews and salads. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase the best of canned apricots.
From classic combinations like apricot-glazed chicken and apricot-stuffed pork loin, to innovative creations like apricot-coconut energy balls and apricot-balsamic vinaigrette, these recipes are sure to inspire your culinary creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, we’ve got something for everyone.
So go ahead, get creative, and let the sweet taste of canned apricots be the inspiration you need to try something new!
Apricot Glazed Chicken
Sweet and Savory Apricot Glazed Chicken Recipe
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful apricot glazed recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup apricot jam
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apricot jam, honey, Dijon mustard, and salt.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the apricot glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each breast.
6. Season with pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apricot and Almond Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the flavors of fresh apricots, crunchy almonds, and flaky pastry to create a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh apricots, sliced
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Arrange sliced apricots and almonds on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Sprinkle sugar, honey, and salt over the fruit and nuts.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
5. Brush the edges with water and press gently to seal.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apricot BBQ Sauce
This apricot BBQ sauce recipe combines the natural sweetness of apricots with the tanginess of citrus, creating a unique and delicious condiment for grilled meats. Perfect for your next barbecue or cookout!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup apricot preserves
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apricot preserves, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Whisk until smooth, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Apricot Yogurt Parfait
A sweet and refreshing dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apricots with the tanginess of yogurt, perfect for a quick treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt (non-fat or low-fat)
– 1/2 cup diced fresh apricots
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup granola or chopped nuts
– Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Add the diced apricots on top of the yogurt layer.
4. Sprinkle the granola or chopped nuts over the apricots.
5. Repeat the layers by spooning the remaining yogurt mixture, then adding any additional apricots and topping with more granola or nuts.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare in just a few minutes.
Apricot Chutney
This tangy and flavorful chutney is perfect for topping naan bread, using as a dip, or adding to your favorite Indian-inspired dishes. With its sweet apricots, spicy red peppers, and hint of ginger, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dried apricots
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– Optional: jalapeño or other hot peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. Rinse the apricots and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and puree the apricots with their soaking liquid until smooth.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the red bell pepper, onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, salt, and lemon juice. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine the cooked vegetable mixture with the apricot puree. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Apricot Bread Pudding
Moist apricots and sweet bread come together to create a delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, apricots, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apricot Smoothie Bowl
Get your daily dose of sunshine with this refreshing apricot smoothie bowl, packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, this recipe is easy to make and customize to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe apricot, diced
– 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Toppings: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or fresh fruit
Instructions:
1. Combine apricot, pineapple, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding ice cubes if desired to achieve the perfect consistency.
3. Pour into a bowl and top with your favorite toppings (e.g., sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or fresh fruit).
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Apricot Stuffed Pork Loin
A sweet and savory twist on traditional pork loin, this recipe adds a burst of flavor from dried apricots and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, olive oil, garlic, thyme, cinnamon, and cumin.
3. Place the pork loin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the apricot mixture evenly over the pork loin, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle chopped apricots over the top of the pork loin.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apricot Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf combines the sweetness of apricots with the comfort of rice, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
7. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and stir in the chopped apricots and honey.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apricot Oatmeal Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the warmth of oats with the sweetness of apricots, perfect for a snack or dessert. With a hint of spice and a crunchy texture from chopped nuts, these treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in chopped apricots and walnuts.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Apricot and Cream Cheese Danish
Sweet and savory, this apricot and cream cheese danish is a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh apricots
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into a large rectangle, about 12 inches by 9 inches.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Spread mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Arrange chopped apricots on top of cream cheese mixture.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal. Brush egg wash over the pastry to give it a golden brown finish.
6. Place danish on prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apricot Salsa
This vibrant salsa combines the natural sweetness of apricots with a hint of tanginess from lime juice, making it perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip. With its unique flavor profile and pop of color, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced fresh apricots
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine apricots, red onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Stir in the honey until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (prep time only)
Apricot Jam Thumbprint Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are filled with the sweet and tangy flavor of apricot jam, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup apricot jam
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add apricot jam, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Use a cookie cutter or thumbprint to create an indentation in each cookie. Fill with apricot jam.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Apricot and Walnut Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of apricots with the earthy flavor of walnuts, perfect for a light and satisfying snack or side dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the dried apricots and chopped walnuts.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Add the crumbled feta cheese (if using) and mix well.
4. Squeeze the honey over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Apricot Upside-Down Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the sweetness of apricots, caramelized to perfection under a layer of golden brown sugar. The result is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh apricots, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Arrange apricot slices on the prepared baking dish, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Pour batter over apricots, spreading evenly.
6. Sprinkle brown sugar over the top of the cake.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Apricot BBQ Ribs
Apricot BBQ Ribs Recipe
This recipe combines the sweet and tangy flavors of apricots with the classic taste of barbecue ribs, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional BBQ.
Ingredients:
- 1 rack of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
- 1 cup apricot jam
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
- Preheat grill to medium-low heat.
- Remove membrane from back of ribs. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix together apricot jam, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Brush mixture evenly onto both sides of the ribs.
- Place ribs on grill and cook for 2 hours, or until tender. Every 30 minutes, brush with barbecue sauce and flip ribs over.
- Finish by cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until caramelized to desired level.
Cooking Time:
Approximately 2 hours and 15-20 minutes of total cooking time. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Apricot Coconut Energy Balls
These bite-sized treats combine the natural sweetness of apricots with the creamy richness of coconut, perfect for a quick energy boost on-the-go. With only a few ingredients and no cooking required, you can whip up a batch in minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, chopped apricots, and shredded coconut.
2. In a small bowl, mix together peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the peanut butter mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the energy balls on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! No cooking required.
Yield: 12-15 energy balls
Apricot Balsamic Vinaigrette
Elevate your salads with this sweet and tangy vinaigrette, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. This Apricot Balsamic Vinaigrette combines the natural sweetness of apricots with the richness of balsamic vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup apricot jam
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together apricot jam and balsamic vinegar until smooth.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture.
3. Add Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this vinaigrette is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Summary
Discover the sweet and savory world of canned apricots with these 18 delicious recipes! From classic desserts like Apricot Upside-Down Cake and Apricot Jam Thumbprint Cookies to innovative twists like Apricot BBQ Sauce and Apricot Balsamic Vinaigrette, there’s something for every taste. Try using apricots in sweet treats like Apricot Parfait or savory dishes like Apricot Stuffed Pork Loin. With these recipes, you’ll never run out of ideas for incorporating canned apricots into your cooking and baking routine.
